Kwara State Government Teams Up with Universities to Boost Mineral Sector Development

During discussions at both universities, stakeholders, including Prof. Abdulsalam Abiodun Salman and Prof. Olusegun Ige, commended the government's proactive approach in engaging academia for the advancement of the mineral sector.

Jun 7, 2024 - 10:31

Kwara State Government Teams Up with Universities to Boost Mineral Sector Development

The Kwara State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with Kwara State University (KWASU) and the University of Ilorin in advancing the metals and minerals sector of the state. Dr. Afeez Abolore Alabi, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, made this known during visits to the campuses of both universities.

At KWASU's Department of Geology and Minerals Sciences, Dr. Alabi stressed the importance of academic support in the government's efforts to revitalize the solid minerals sector. He urged the university to leverage past research to contribute to ongoing initiatives aimed at repositioning the sector.

In response, the Acting Vice Chancellor of KWASU, Prof. Sheikh Lukman Jimoh, expressed appreciation for the government's initiative and pledged the university's commitment to collaborating on developing a sustainable roadmap for the mineral sector. He emphasized the potential socio-economic benefits such collaboration could bring to Kwara State.

Similarly, at the University of Ilorin, Professor Olabisi Adekeye, Head of the Geology Department, highlighted the abundant mineral resources in Kwara State and underscored the importance of harnessing them effectively. He reiterated the university's readiness to partner with the government to elevate solid minerals development to new heights.

During discussions at both universities, stakeholders, including Prof. Abdulsalam Abiodun Salman and Prof. Olusegun Ige, commended the government's proactive approach in engaging academia for the advancement of the mineral sector. They emphasized the need for concerted efforts to maximize the revenue potentials of mining activities across the state.

In conclusion, Mr. Kunle Adimula, the Director of Geological Services, thanked the universities for their warm reception and expressed optimism that ongoing legislative efforts to support mining operations in the state would yield positive results. The collaborative efforts between the government and universities signify a significant step towards unlocking the full potential of Kwara State's mineral resources for sustainable development.